Fish Culturist

Cook Inlet Aquaculture Association (CIAA) has an opening for an on-site Fish Culturist at Tutka Bay Lagoon Hatchery located remotely in Tutka Bay Lagoon, near Homer, Alaska. This hatchery is currently permitted to produce up to 125 million pink salmon eggs and also assists with the Trail Lakes Hatchery Lower Cook Inlet sockeye salmon program.

Job description:   

This is a regular, full-time, exempt position. Under the supervision of the Assistant Manager, the Fish Culturist provides assistance in the operation and maintenance of the Tutka Bay Lagoon Hatchery in a safe, professional, and cost-effective manner. This position performs a variety of responsibilities including, but not limited to:

• Assists in all maintenance activities to provide for the facility and equipment readiness.
• Assists with maintaining records of all fish culture and maintenance activities.
• Responds to emergency and process alarms.
• Assists in broodstock collection and spawning.
• Conducts all fish culture activities utilizing best practices.
• Conducts periodic safety inspections, maintains a safe working environment, and may provide orientation and safety training of personnel.
• Safely operates heavy equipment and boats.
• Assists with monthly APDES water sampling, to ensure water quality standards.
• Responsible for site management in the absence of the Assistant Hatchery Manager and Hatchery Manager.
• May lead Fisheries Technician I-Hatchery positions.

Qualifications:

The ideal applicant will have a working knowledge of applied fishery biology and basic construction techniques; a valid Alaska driver’s license (or the ability to obtain one shortly after hire); and possess good mechanical and boating skills. Must be able to operate fishery and water quality sampling gear. Current CPR and First Aid certifications are required. A minimum of six months experience in fish culture is preferred. Strong outdoor skills and experience with Microsoft Excel and Word and the ability to communicate in a concise, effective manner is required. Requires the ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs and the ability to work in cold, wet, and humid conditions for extended periods.  Current CPR and first aid certifications are required.

Other combinations of training and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for relevancy. If you believe you meet the qualifications above, and you are looking for a fun, challenging, and rewarding job, then CIAA encourages you to apply. CIAA is an equal opportunity employer.